Private MRI Scan in Cambridge
Understanding
MRI Scans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful, non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
This allows medical professionals to examine your organs, tissues, and skeletal system without the need for surgery or radiation.
MRI scans can be used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions throughout the body.
Spine
MRI is one of the most effective tools for investigating spinal conditions, including back and neck pain, slipped or herniated discs, disc protrusions, sciatica and nerve compression causing tingling or numbness in the arms or legs. It also provides detailed assessment of the spinal cord for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, tumours and spinal injury.
Could an MRI of the Spine Help You?
You may benefit from a spinal MRI if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent back or neck pain that hasn’t resolved with rest or physiotherapy
- Pain, tingling, or numbness radiating into the arms or legs
- Suspected slipped or herniated disc
- Sciatica or shooting pain down the leg
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Bladder or bowel changes associated with back pain
- A history of spinal injury or trauma
These symptoms can be associated with disc protrusions, nerve compression, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and other conditions that are not visible on X-ray.
At Momentm Health, you don’t need a GP referral. You can self-refer directly and receive a detailed report, carried out by experienced specialists in a comfortable, private setting.
Joints and Musculoskeletal System
Identifying injuries, arthritis, and bone infections. MRI is particularly helpful in the diagnosis of orthopaedic and sports injuries such as ACL, meniscus, muscle tears or rotator cuff tears, and chronic conditions such as rheumatoid or osteoarthritis.
Could a Joint and Muscle MRI Help You?
You may benefit from a musculoskeletal MRI if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent joint pain that hasn’t resolved with rest or physiotherapy
- Pain, swelling or stiffness following a sporting injury or fall
- A sensation of a joint locking, catching or giving way
- Clicking, popping or grinding sensations within a joint
- Swelling that returns repeatedly without a clear cause
- Difficulty with range of movement or weight-bearing
- A suspected ligament, tendon, cartilage or meniscal injury
These symptoms can be associated with conditions such as ACL and PCL tears, meniscal tears, rotator cuff tears, cartilage damage, labral tears, tendinopathy, bone stress injuries and other soft tissue pathology that is simply not visible on X-ray.
At Momentm Health, you don’t need a GP referral. You can self-refer directly and receive a detailed report, carried out by experienced specialists in a comfortable, private setting.
Upper Abdomen
Providing detailed imaging of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, gall bladder and adrenal glands to identify cysts, tumours, inflammation and signs of organ disease — without the radiation exposure of CT scanning.
Could an Upper Abdominal MRI Help You?
You may benefit from an upper abdominal MRI if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Abnormal blood test results suggesting liver, kidney or pancreatic concerns
- A known or suspected cyst, mass or lesion requiring further investigation
- A family history of abdominal cancers or organ disease
- Monitoring of a previously identified condition
These symptoms and findings can be associated with conditions such as liver disease, gallstones, renal cysts, pancreatic abnormalities and adrenal tumours — many of which are most accurately assessed with MRI.
At Momentm Health, you don’t need a GP referral. You can self-refer directly and receive a detailed report, carried out by experienced specialists in a comfortable, private setting.
Women's Health
Our gynaecological pelvic MRI uses dedicated protocols specifically tailored to the female reproductive system, delivering a level of detail and clinical nuance that a general scan simply cannot match. This allows comprehensive assessment of conditions including endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts and masses, polycystic ovaries, PID and congenital uterine anomalies.
Could a Gynaecological MRI Help You?
You may benefit from a gynaecological MRI if you experience any of the following:
- Pelvic pain before, during or throughout your menstrual cycle
- Prolonged or heavy periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Difficulty conceiving
- Bladder pain or bowel changes associated with your cycle
- An inconclusive or unclear ultrasound result
- Known or suspected endometriosis, fibroids or adenomyosis requiring further assessment
MRI provides a level of detail that ultrasound cannot always achieve, and is often the next step when symptoms persist or a diagnosis remains unclear.
At Momentm Health, you don’t need a GP referral. You can self-refer directly and receive a detailed report, carried out by experienced specialists in a comfortable, private setting.
Prostate
We offer dedicated prostate MRI using protocols specifically tailored to prostate assessment, including multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) — the gold standard for detecting and characterising prostate cancer without an initial biopsy. Our lead radiologist has specialist oncology expertise, ensuring findings are interpreted with the highest level of clinical precision.
Could a Prostate MRI Help You?
You may benefit from a prostate MRI if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty or changes in urination, including urgency, frequency or weak flow
- Unexplained lower back, hip or pelvic pain
- An elevated or rising PSA result
- A family history of prostate cancer
- An inconclusive biopsy or previous abnormal finding requiring review
mpMRI allows our consultant radiologists to assess the prostate in detail, helping to identify, characterise and stage potential abnormalities before any biopsy is considered — reducing unnecessary procedures and supporting faster, more accurate treatment decisions.
At Momentm Health, you don’t need a GP referral. You can self-refer directly and receive a detailed report, carried out by experienced specialists in a comfortable, private setting.
Your Journey with Momentm Health Cambridge
Momentm Health Cambridge makes your health diagnostic experience smooth and stress-free.
We understand that medical procedures can be daunting, which is why we've designed our process to be straightforward and patient-friendly.
Let's walk through what you can expect at each stage of your journey.
Booking is Easy with Momentm Health Cambridge
Your journey begins with a simple booking process. Ask your doctor or health professional to make a referral or use our online booking portal—it only takes a few minutes.
Upload a referral from your clinician. After answering a few questions about your medical history and the reason for your scan, we’ll offer a choice of appointment times to suit your schedule—with no long wait.
Before Your Vist
- Save time on the day by completing our safety questionnaire ahead of your appointment
During Your Visit
When you arrive at Momentm Health Cambridge for your appointment, we’ll make your experience as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Check-in Process
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time
- Our reception team will greet you and guide you through check-in
- We’ll verify your personal details and any medical information
- Relax, we’re here to take care of you
Safety Screening
- You’ll complete a thorough safety questionnaire
- This helps us ensure the MRI scan is safe for you
- Be sure to inform us of any metal implants, devices, or pregnancy
Preparing for Your Scan
- Your comfort is critical to us
- You may be asked to change into a gown, depending on the area being scanned
- Wear non-metal containing clothing to avoid the need to get changed
- We provide secure lockers for your belongings
- Remove all metal objects (jewellery, watches, etc.)
Meeting Your Radiographer
- A highly skilled radiographer will show you to the scanning room
- They’ll explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have
- Feel free to share any concerns—we’re here to help
After your scan
- Grab coffee and refreshments and take time out in our relaxing waiting area
- You’ll receive your images, as well as access to your scans and results on your private health portal
- Sign up to your personal health portal to receive notifications and your results
- Await your results within 48 hours
Your Scan: What to Expect
Once you’re ready, you’ll enter the scanning room. Our modern MRI machine is a large, open-ended tube. You’ll lie down on a padded table that slides into the scanner. Our examination room has a soothing ambience and you can listen to your favourite music with our unlimited streaming choices.
Depending on the area being examined, you may enter headfirst or feet first.
The Radiographer will ensure you’re in the right position and may use pillows or padding to help make you comfortable.
They’ll also provide you with earplugs or headphones to protect your hearing from the loud knocking sounds the machine makes during the scan.
You’ll be able to talk with the team throughout the procedure via an intercom. If you feel anxious, let them know—they can support you from start to finish.
During the scan, it’s important to lie as still as possible to ensure clear images. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly for certain scans.
Scan times vary depending on the area being examined and the number of images needed. Your personalised appointment details will explain how long to expect to be in our care. Once complete, the table will slide out of the scanner, and you’re done.
Aftercare & Results
No sedatives or anaesthesia are used during scanning, so you’ll be able to go about your day as normal and even drive home after your appointment.
Our expert radiologists will analyse your scans and prepare a full diagnostic report, shared securely with you and your chosen healthcare professional promptly after your appointment.
Using our private sharing portal, results can be transferred directly to any clinician, NHS trust or private hospital — making onward care seamless and straightforward, with no extra steps or additional cost.
Momentm Health Cambridge MRI: Fast, Effective and Safe
MRI is generally a very safe procedure, but there are important considerations.
Who Can Have an MRI?
Most people can safely undergo MRI scans. We’ll carry out a full safety screening beforehand to identify any risks.
- Pregnant women can usually have MRI scans, especially after the first trimester but must be referred by a healthcare professional.
- May not be suitable if you have some implanted medical devices or metal fragments in your body
Ensuring Your Safety
The process is safe, with no side effects, and you’ll be in contact with our radiographers throughout via an intercom in the scanner.
- Removal of all metal objects before entering the scanning room
- Constant monitoring by our trained radiographers during the scan
- Emergency stop button provided for your peace of mind
Radiation & Contrast Agents
MRI does not use ionising radiation, making it safer than X-rays or CT scans. There are no known long-term effects from exposure to MRI fields.
Some scans may require a contrast agent or other drugs for enhanced imaging. These are safe when administered appropriately. We’ll discuss any need for contrast agents with you beforehand in a comprehensive drug safety questionnaire.
MRI Scanning—Your FAQs
Who can have an MRI scan?
Most people can safely have an MRI scan. However, it may not be suitable if you have certain metal implants or devices in your body. We’ll go through a safety checklist before your appointment to ensure it’s right for you.
My doctor recommended a scan. Should I be worried?
Not necessarily. MRI scans are often used as a diagnostic tool to get a clearer picture of what’s happening inside your body. It’s a proactive step to gather more information and guide your care.
Is MRI scanning covered by my medical insurance?
We accept coverage from most major insurers, including AXA, BUPA, WPA, Aviva, Healix, Vitality, HPE, TASS, Beneden and more. Coverage can vary, so we recommend checking policy details and pre-authorisation requirements with your provider.
Do I need a referral from a medical professional to get a scan?
No, you don’t always need a referral. At Momentm Health Cambridge, we offer self-referral options, allowing you to book your scan directly with us. However, if you have a referral, we’re happy to work with your healthcare provider.
How should I prepare for my scan?
Preparation is minimal. Wear comfortable clothing without metal components, and remove any metal objects (jewellery, watches, etc.). We’ll provide detailed instructions when you book your appointment.
What happens during my scan?
You’ll lie on a padded table that moves into the scanner. The machine will make noises as it takes images and you’ll be given headphones or earplugs to keep it quiet. A piece of equipment will be placed over the area that needs imaging. Don’t worry—you’ll be able to communicate with our team throughout the scan.
How long does it take?
Most scans take 15-60 minutes, depending on the area being examined. We’ll give you a more precise estimate when you book your appointment.
Does MRI scanning hurt?
No, MRI scans are painless.
Can I drive after the scan?
Yes, you can drive after an MRI scan. The procedure doesn’t involve any sedatives or medications that would impair your ability to drive.
Are there any side effects?
MRI scans have no known side effects. It’s a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t use radiation, making it very safe for most people.
Can I have an MRI scan if I'm pregnant?
While MRI scans are generally considered safe during pregnancy, we typically recommend waiting until after the first trimester unless medically necessary. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare professional first.
Can I bring a friend to the appointment?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a friend or family member for support if you are especially anxious. They can stay with you until the scan begins or throughout your scan but will need to undergo safety screening first. Unsupervised children/minors are not permitted.
What is the minimum age requirement for an MRI scan?
We scan patients from age 4 with a clinician referral. Self-referral is available from age 12 with parental consent. Scans for under-16s are currently limited to musculoskeletal and neurological MRI.
Book now to secure an affordable scan today.
Tired of seeing patients' lives put on hold by long wait times and rigid scheduling, we asked ourselves:
What if patients could take control of their healthcare journey?
